Holy Basil
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Also known as
Brush-Leaf-Tea, Sacred Basil
Ocimum tenuiflorum 24 08 2012 by Joydeep (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H1a
RHS hardiness
15°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
60cm | Max | 40cm |
30cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a strong fragrance
More images of Holy Basil
Holy Basil Overview
Ocimum tenuiflorum is commonly known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, as a traditional medicinal herb from the Lamiaceae family. It has a spicy and refreshing fragrance and tiny flowers make this a useful houseplant too. Tulsi grows as a perennial plant in areas with mild winter and as an annual in cold and temperate climates.
Common problems with Holy Basil
Holy Basil Companion Plants
How to harvest Holy Basil
Reap the aromatic leaves of your Tulsi plant throughout the growing season as it is needed.
How to propagate Holy Basil
Seed
Place seeds on top of soil. Press them for good soil to seed contact and cover with 1cm of compost or soil. Water by misting keeping soil moist until germination in 1-2 weeks time.
Special features of Holy Basil
Indoor plant
Can be grown indoors, place in an area with bright light.
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Holy Basil
Culinary
Somewhat stronger than Sweet Basil - use sparingly!
Medicinal
Prevent a headache, sooth an ear infection or reduce blood sugar with basil!